HRC31: Interactive Dialogue with the Independent Expert on Mali

The United States thanks Independent Expert Suliman Baldo for his continued work on the human rights situation in Mali and for his report on his fifth visit to Mali.

In June 2015, a significant step toward achieving peace was made with the full signature of the Accord for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali. Nine months later, there has been little progress toward implementation.

The United States strongly encourages the Government of Mali to focus on protecting human rights, fostering national dialogue with all signatories of the accord, and beginning steps to reintegrate armed groups into society. The government must show greater commitment to the peace process and take leadership of accord implementation. The United States shares the IE’s concern regarding the security situation in Mali, and reiterates our shared resolve to counter terrorism.

All those responsible for human rights violations and abuses should be held accountable. We encourage the Government of Mali to increase transparency and address instances of corruption in order to build trust between citizens and the criminal justice sector, including the police, judiciary, and corrections system.

We urge the Government of Mali to move quickly to prioritize disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration efforts. The United States will continue to stand by the Malian people as they work to bring about the future of peace and prosperity that all Malians deserve.

Question: What does the IE believe is the best way for the international community to support Mali’s efforts to implement the accord?